Gaines Township considers full-time leadership

GAINES TOWNSHIP -- As the township continues to grow, officials are looking into hiring a full-time superintendent to take over some of the supervisor's responsibilities.

A personnel committee is to present its findings to the Township Board at its workshop meeting at 7 p.m. Monday in the township's offices, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave. SE.

The position might better serve the growing community and could add continuity sometimes missing in elected positions. If the position is approved, the person selected likely would prepare budgets and supervise township staff, in addition to taking on some duties performed by the clerk and treasurer.

"We're not the little rural township we were 20 years ago," said Township Clerk Crystal Osterink, who also serves on the committee.

Population growth in the township is outpacing both the state and Kent County, according to a township report. Gaines' population was 20,112 in 2000, and was projected at 23,416 in 2005 -- a 16 percent increase compared to an estimated increase of 1 percent for the state and 4 percent for the county.

The township's population nearly doubled between 1980 and 2000. However, Planning Director Brian Tingley said the state's economic downturn could have a big impact on future growth.

Board member Connie Giarmo said that, in addition to providing needed extra manpower, a superintendent would give Gaines an increased "level of continuity."

The supervisor seat, along with all other board positions, is subject to change every four years. The next election is in August.

"Because public officials are elected every four years, there is a bit of a learning curve for them," Giarmo said.

Supervisor Don Hilton has served in his position since 1992.

"I think Don has done an excellent job, but there's always that possibility that we might not have someone who has been involved in government as long as he has," Giarmo said.

Osterink said the model being considered resembles that of Plainfield and Cascade townships. The staffer would likely serve as a purchasing agent, attend Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals and Parks and Recreation Committee meetings, as well as help coordinate Dutton and Cutlerville fire departments.

Hilton, also a committee member, sees the position as a "hybrid" of other township models. The supervisor should "go on representing the citizens of the township," would continue to serve on the Grand Valley Metro Council, and stay involved in "visioning activities," he said.

"We've got a ways to go with it, but obviously we need to determine what direction we are going to go relatively soon," Hilton said.

"We've always maintained the strong supervisor role and I think we want to continue to do that."